ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) – Rockford Rescue Mission invites the community to its 60th annual Christmas banquet.
People who attended got to enjoy a warm Christmas meal consisting of ham, mashed potatoes and gravy, dinner rolls and pumpkin pie. The mission says that without the great work of the people who support it, the meal wouldn’t be possible.
Rockford Rescue Mission Chief Development Officer Ted Tomita says, “We couldn’t do it without our donors, our community all putting together to do what we do, and that’s helping people go from a place of homelessness and despair to a place of personal and spiritual wholeness.”
More than 80 volunteers served around 300 people Tuesday. Volunteer Dave Aldridge says that it’s important for everyone, no matter what their situation is, to have a Christmas experience.
Aldridge also says, “I’m here on a regular basis, once a week at least. We also come here for the holidays to do this to really spread, as much as possible, the love of God.”
The Mission plans to keep these meals going as long as they can with the community’s help.
Aldridge says, “To be generous is just a reflection and an echo of the generosity of our maker, so that’s what Christmas is about. Giving people the opportunity to give is a great experience for us at Rockford Rescue Mission.”
The organization will be serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner on Christmas day.
Those interested in volunteering for the event can submit an online application, email volunteer@rockfordrescuemission.org for more information or reach out by calling 815-965-5332, ext. 151.
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